Connect with others supporting young people

Working with young people can be incredibly rewarding, but it also comes with unique challenges.

For people working with young people, connecting with peers and sharing experiences can make a real difference, especially when supporting those affected by suicidal thoughts. 

We’ve got two dedicated forums that provide people working in this space across Scotland with that opportunity. 

They provide a space to connect, share knowledge, and learn from others working in similar roles. These forums are open to both statutory and third-sector organisations and are designed to encourage collaboration, insight , and support for those working with children and young people.

Local Children and Young People Suicide Prevention Workforce Forum

This bi-monthly forum brings together people involved in co-ordinating and planning suicide prevention activities across local areas.

Sessions are themed based on member input and include guest speakers and breakout discussions. The forum is designed to facilitate sharing best practices and learning from the experiences of others in the field.

Participation Network

The Participation Network brings together practitioners working with young people who have experienced suicidal ideation, have lost someone to suicide, or face challenges with mental health.

Sessions follow the themes set by the Youth Advisory Group, giving members insight into what young people are voicing and an opportunity to share observations from their own work. 

Guest speakers often bring perspectives from policy, academic research, or frontline practice.

If you work with young people and want to connect with peers, share experiences, and stay informed:

• Join the Participation Network by emailing pshirazi@childreninscotland.org.uk

• To join the Local Children and Young People Suicide Prevention Workforce Forum, email PHS.SuicidePreventionTeam@phs.scot

Some people attend both forums, and session themes and aims are advertised ahead of meetings so members can self-select which sessions are most relevant.

Engaging with peers in these spaces helps ensure that everyone working in the sector can feel supported, informed, and empowered to make a meaningful difference.